Canvas chronicles
You are taken to a world where tradition and modernity collide and history is brought to life through art as soon as you step inside the Museum of Folk and Tribal Art. The vast collection of artworks on display at the museum includes captivating paintings, sculptures, textiles, and artefacts that each tell a different tale of rural life, folklore, and spiritual beliefs. Take in the beauty and complexity of India’s rich artistic legacy as you stroll through the galleries filled with vibrant Madhubani paintings, detailed Warli artwork, and masterfully crafted tribal masks.
Enter the world of the Bishnoi, a people group renowned for their abiding respect for the natural world and its fauna. See their unique ceramics and handicrafts, decorated with designs derived from the desert’s flora and fauna. Discover their long-standing customs of preservation and eco-friendly living, and leave with a fresh understanding of how humans and the environment can coexist in harmony.
Admire the Rabari tribe’s exquisite embroidery, which adorns their traditional costumes with shimmering sequins, beads, and mirrors. Admire the artists’ talent as you see beautifully embroidered textiles, intricately woven baskets, and hand-carved wooden utensils—all of which are examples of the creators’ inventiveness and resourcefulness.
Discover the world of the Bhils, one of the largest indigenous groups in India, renowned for their vibrant artistic and cultural traditions. Examine their vivid paintings, which frequently use strong colours and dynamic compositions to portray scenes from mythology, nature, and everyday life. Admire the beautiful beadwork on their jewellery and clothes, which reflects their close ties to the land and its resources.
Following your path through the galleries, you will come across the elaborate terracotta sculptures made by the centuries-old Bastar tribes. Admire the expressive forms and intricate carvings that perfectly capture the intricacies of tribal life. Discover more about the ceremonies and rituals for which these sculptures were made, and gain an understanding of the Bastar people’s cultural customs and spiritual beliefs.
Don’t miss the chance to learn about the traditional crafts of the Warli tribes, whose vivid paintings portray scenes from everyday life such as festivals, ceremonies, and farming. The paintings are straightforward yet striking. Discover the age-old methods that were utilized to produce these classic pieces of art, and admire the striking geometric patterns and stylized figures that cover their walls and floors.
Heritage odyssey
Make time to enjoy the variety and depth of India’s folk and tribal art traditions as you browse the galleries. Every artefact serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of India’s indigenous communities by telling a tale of resilience, inventiveness, and cultural heritage. Along with memories of the stunning pieces of art you have seen, you will depart the museum with a heightened awareness and respect for the dynamic cultures that have moulded India’s identity over the centuries.
The Museum of Folk and Tribal Art offers a variety of interactive exhibits and immersive experiences in addition to its impressive collection of artefacts, enabling visitors to interact with India’s cultural heritage in fresh and fascinating ways. Take part in practical workshops where you can learn how to do traditional crafts like weaving, block printing, and pottery under the supervision of knowledgeable and willing instructors. Experience the music, dance, and storytelling customs of India’s various folk and tribal communities through participation in cultural performances and demonstrations. This will help you develop a greater understanding of the diverse range of cultures that make up Indian society.
Beyond the museum
The Museum of Folk and Tribal Art in Gurugram, Haryana, is surrounded by several intriguing attractions. One notable site is the Sultanpur National Park, located about 15 km from the museum. This bird sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers, with over 250 species of resident and migratory birds. Visitors can enjoy serene walks along the park’s trails, spot vibrant bird species such as the Siberian crane, greater flamingo, and black-necked stork, and take in the natural beauty of the wetlands.
For those interested in history and architecture, the Qutub Khan's Tomb, about 25 km from the museum, is worth a visit. This lesser-known monument is an example of Mughal architecture, featuring intricate carvings and a serene garden setting. The tomb is surrounded by well-maintained lawns and provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Visitors can explore the historical significance of the site and enjoy a quiet moment in its tranquil surroundings.
